What is the Writers' League Agents Conference?
The Agents Conference provides writers an opportunity to pitch their books to prospective agents. In addition, the Conference provides an educational forum where writers at any stage in their career can learn more about the publishing industry and how to achieve their literary goals. Panels and lectures on a variety of writing and publishing topics are held throughout the Conference. For samples of topics to be covered, see the preliminary 2009 Conference schedule. Note that it is subject to change.

Conference registration includes admission to all lectures, panels, and receptions. All registrants receive a 10-minute one-on-one consultation with an agent or editor on a first-come, first-served basis.

I'm a writer (or beginning writer), but not writing a book. Can I still benefit from the conference?
Yes! The Conference is a fantastic learning experience for anyone wishing to get a better look at how the publishing industry works and what is needed to succeed. For samples of topics to be covered, see the 2009 Conference schedule. Also, with over 450 publishing professionals and aspiring writers attending, the Conference is a wonderful networking opportunity.

The Conference also includes a 10-minute scheduled appointment with an agent or editor. The appointment is optional, but we recommend that you use the time to talk to the agent/editor about plans for future projects and get feedback or ask general questions about working with an agent/editor, etc.

What if I don't have a manuscript completed? Can I still benefit from the conference?
Yes! Even if you don't have a manuscript ready to submit to an agent or editor, the Conference is a fantastic learning experience for anyone wishing to get a better look at how the publishing industry works and what is needed to succeed. For samples of topics to be covered, see the preliminary 2009 Conference schedule. Also, with over 450 publishing professionals and aspiring writers attending, the Conference is a wonderful networking opportunity.

The Conference also includes a 10-minute scheduled appointment with an agent or editor. The appointment is optional, but we recommend that you use the time to talk to the agent/editor about your manuscript and get feedback, or ask general questions about working with an agent/editor, etc.

REGISTRATION

How much does the Conference cost?
The 2009 Agents Conference fees are listed below. Nonmembers can join when they register to receive the member discount.

Early-Bird Registration:
August 15 - September 30, 2008: $289 Members / $349 Nonmembers

Regular Registration:
October 1 - December 31, 2008: $309 Members / $369 Nonmembers

January 1 - May 25, 2009: $329 Members / $389 Nonmembers

May 26 - June 26, 2009: $379 Members / $439 Nonmembers

What is included in the registration attendance fee?
Conference registration includes admission to all lectures, panels, and breakout sessions. All registrants receive a 10-minute one-on-one consultation with an agent or editor on a first-come, first-served basis. The sooner you register, the better your chances to get the agent or editor of your choice.

Your registration also includes two appetizer/cash-bar receptions (Friday and Saturday evenings), and a Sunday afternoon Coffee Break. An exhibition hall and a bookstore will be open during the conference.

Should I become a member or go at the non-member rate?
Members of the Writers' League receive a $60 discount on the Conference fee, as well as a $60 discount on any class or workshop we offer throughout the year and other benefits. Regular membership costs $50 a year - you can save $10 by joining when you register for the Conference!

How do I register? Can I register online?
Yes, you can register online with credit card, Paypal or Google Checkout, or pay by check (fill out a form and mail it to our office). For more information, call 512.499.8914. Agent/editor meetings are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is there a registration deadline?
Registrations will be taken as long as spaces are available. Keep in mind that the agent/editor consultations are assigned on a first-come-first-served basis -- if you know you want to attend, don't wait to register!

ABOUT AGENT APPOINTMENTS

How are agent/editor meetings assigned?
Each agent and editor is scheduled for a limited number of appointments, which are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. When you register, we note the date and time of your registration. The first person who registers is assigned his or her first choice, and then the second person who registers is assigned, and so on. When a registrant's first choice already has a full schedule, the next available choice is assigned.

How do I make my agent/editor selections?
When the full lineup of agents is available online in early 2009, you should research those you think would be interested in your work. Information about each agent or editor and their interests can be found on the Agents Bios page. Visit this page often for updated information. New Feature: This year we have created a chart reflecting the genre categories by agent (pdf). You can use this to help narrow down your selections to pick the agents that are right for you!

We recommend that you further research the agents who interest you by visiting agency and publishers' websites, searching online for more information, and referring to such books as the 2009 Guide to Literary Agents. Also, note those who are agents and those who are editors, and make selections based on your preference.

You can register before the full lineup of agents is posted, and submit your choices later when you have had time to research the attending agents. People who register before the full lineup is posted will have until May 25, 2009 to submit their list of choices.

How important are my agent/editor selections?
Your selections are very important! We assign your agent/editor consultation based solely on your selections and the order in which you registered.

How/when do I submit my agent/editor selections?
After the full lineup of attending agents is posted, and you have done your research, you will need to submit your Top 10 choices ranked from first (#1) to last (#10) in an email to wlt@writersleague.org no later than May 25, 2009. Include your name in the body of the email if your full name is not part of your email address.

How many agents/editors do I need to choose?
Submit your top 10 choices in order from your first choice (#1) to your last (#10).

Why do I need to list my top 10 choices?
While most people who attended the 2008 Conference were assigned one of their top three choices, we cannot guarantee that you will receive an appointment with any specific agent or editor until we actually make the appointments in early June. If the schedule for the agents/editor you selected is already filled when your appointment is scheduled, there will not be time to contact you for additional choices so we ask that every registrant list at least 10 choices.

What is the deadline to submit my agent/editor choices?
The deadline to submit agent/editor choices is May 25, 2009. If you register after May 25, you must submit your agent/editor choices at the time you register.

When do I find out which agent/editor I will meet?
We will notify each registrant of the appointment date and time and the name of the assigned agent or editor one to two weeks before the Conference.

Can I get an appointment with more than one agent/editor?
Conference registration includes one 10-minute scheduled appointment with an agent or editor. If extra appointments are available after all registrants have been schedules, additional appointments may be available for $50. In this event, all registrants will be notified by email how to proceed.

Will I have opportunities to talk to agents/editors outside my scheduled appointment?
Yes! Agents will be available at cocktail receptions both Friday and Saturday evening, as well as at a coffee break Sunday afternoon. In addition, many of the agents lead and/or sit on panels throughout the Conference.

Should I bring my manuscript to my appointment?
We recommend that you bring the first 10 pages of your manuscript to the Conference and to your appointment, but do not show it to an agent or editor unless specifically asked to do so. Most agents/editors only want to hear your verbal pitch at the Conference; if interested, they will ask that you submit your manuscript after the Conference. We recommend that you bring the first 10 pages of your manuscript because, rarely, an agent who does ask to see it attends the conference.

Keep in mind that each agent and editor will talk to many people about many manuscripts and could not take even the first few pages of every manuscript of interest. (Also, handing them a stack a paper will distract them from your verbal pitch!) Your goal is to be invited to submit your manuscript -- this ensures the agent/editor will read it when he or she has time and focus to do so!

How can I prepare for my agent/editor appointment?
The best way to prepare for your appointment with an agent or editor is to develop your verbal pitch. You want to deliver it perfectly even if you are nervous! The Writers' League will offer several workshops on developing your pitch to help you get ready for the Conference.

Also, we recommend that you take a look at these articles (pdf) from past issues of our newsletter Scribe.

What do I do if the agent/editor I meet with is NOT interested in my work?
Use the rest of your meeting to get information about why the agent is not interested. Ask the agent/editor for suggestions of other agents who might be interested (then go home and query them!). Ask the agent/editor what might make the manuscript more saleable. Or, describe ideas you have for future projects to get his or her reaction.

Also, remember that while you get one scheduled meeting with an agent or editor, you have multiple opportunities for more informal pitching with all the agents.

I co-wrote a manuscript; can both writers attend the same agent/editor meeting?
If both writers are paid registrants of the Conference, they can both go to each attendee's meeting (let us know when you register so we can have two chairs available). Only paid registrants can attend agent/editor meetings.

Should I query the agents/editors I want to meet with before the Conference?
No! The Conference is your opportunity to query in person with your verbal pitch. You want the agent or editor to form his or her first impression of your manuscript as you enthusiastically describe it. A flurry of queries before the conference may frustrate the agent and have a negative impact.

What if I want to come for just the workshops and the networking? Do I have to meet with an agent/editor?
No, the meeting is optional, but we recommend that you use the time to talk to the agent/editor about your plans for future projects and get feedback or ask general questions about working with an agent, etc.

GENERAL CONFERENCE

When and where will the conference be held?
The 2009 Agents Conference will be held June 26-28, 2009, at the Austin Sheraton Hotel. You can make your hotel reservations online or by calling the hotel directly at 512.478.1111.

Is there a discount on hotel rooms for Conference attendees?
Yes, we reserved a block of discounted rooms for Conference-attendees: $136 (single) and $146 (double occupancy). When you make hotel reservations, mention that you are attending the Writers' League of Texas Agents Conference. Please note that the discounted rooms sold out before the 2008 Conference, so we recommend that you make your hotel reservations as soon as you register for the Conference.

Do I need to check in with the Writers' League when I arrive at the hotel?
You need to come to the the WLT registration in the hotel's main hall to pick up your Conference packet and name badge before you can attend any Conference events.

Why do I need a name badge?
You must wear your name badge to enter all Conference workshops, events, and your agent appointment. We have a limited ability to replace lost name badges, so be careful not to lose it or leave it in your hotel room. You cannot attend any Conference-related event without it.

What if I lose my name badge?
If you lose your name badge, you must come to the registration desk. Replacement name tags will cost $10 and may take up to 30 minutes to produce.

When should I arrive at the hotel (I am attending a pre-Conference workshop)?
The Conference registration desk will open at 1 PM Friday, June 26. If you are attending a pre-Conference workshop at 3:30 PM., we recommend that you check in at the registration desk to pick up your packet and name badge between 1- 2 PM, to help avoid long lines.

When should I arrive at the hotel (I am NOT attending a pre-Conference workshop)?
The first general Conference event is the Friday cocktail reception beginning at 5 PM. You need your name badge to attend, so you must check in at the Conference registration desk. While the registration desk will open at 1 PM. Friday, June 26, please wait until 3 PM and allow those attending pre-Conference workshops to check in first.

Where can I park? How much will it cost?
Some parking will be available in the hotel parking garage. Conference attendees will receive discounted self-parking of $7 per day. Metered parking is available on streets near the hotel (meters are free on weekends and on weekdays after 5:30 PM).

Will meals be included as part of the Conference?
No meals will be included in the price of registration. Coffee and light snacks will be provided on Saturday and Sunday mornings, and light appetizers will be provided at the cocktail receptions Friday and Saturday evenings. The hotel has a restaurant onsite, and several restaurants are within walking distance.

Keynote luncheon tickets for Saturday, June 27, will be available beginning January 2 for $35.

I want to attend the Keynote Luncheon. How can I purchase a ticket?
Tickets for the Keynote Luncheon will be available beginning January 2 for $35 each. Tickets will only be available to registered Conference attendees. After January 2, new registrants will be able to purchase Luncheon tickets at the time of registration.

Who should I contact if I have a disability and/or special needs?
Please notify us of any disabilities or special needs when you register for the Conference or no later than May 15, 2009 by emailing Kristy.

Will there be panels or lectures at the Conference?
Yes! Take a look at the 2009 Conference schedule to see what to expect.

How will I know which panels and lectures I can attend?
Once the schedule of panels and lectures is finalized in early May, a full Conference schedule will be posted online. You will also receive a registration packet with a Conference program when you check in. You can review the choices for each session and attend those of most interest. Admittance to panels and lectures is dependent on space limitations of the venue. Be aware that some panels/lectures will be more popular than others. If there is one you just can't miss, you may need to arrive early.

What are the pre-Conference workshops?
The pre-Conference workshops are optional three-hour workshops on Friday, June 26. There is an additional $50 fee to attend. Each workshop will be taught by an agent or editor and will focus on pitching your manuscript. See details for the 2009 pre-Conference workshop.

What should I expect at the cocktail receptions?
The Friday and Saturday cocktail receptions will take place at the hotel. Agents will attend and be available for informal pitching. The hotel will offer a cash bar and we will provide complimentary light appetizers.

The receptions are one of your best opportunities to approach agents who you think may be interested in your work. Remember that pitching in this format should be more casual than in your one-on-one consultation. Receptions are also a great opportunity to network with other writers.

What if my plans change and I can't attend? Can I get a refund?
Our refund policy for the 2009 Conference allows for a 100% refund if you cancel before December 23, 2008, and a 50% refund if you cancel for any reason before February 28, 2009. After March 1, 2009, no refunds will be issued.

How can I become a sponsor or an exhibitor?
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or an exhibitor, contact Cyndi Hughes for details.

When should I schedule my flights?
(1) If you are attending a pre-Conference workshop, you will want to be at the hotel by 1 PM Friday, June 26, to have plenty of time to check into the hotel, check in at the Conference registration desk, and be at your workshop on time. Keep in mind that traffic in downtown Austin can be quite busy on Friday afternoons and allow extra travel time.

(2) If you are not attending a pre-Conference workshop, you will want to be at the hotel between 3 and 4 PM to allow time to check into the hotel, check in at the Conference registration desk, and be at the Friday Reception that begins at 5 PM. This reception is your first opportunity to interact with the agents who attend the Conference. Keep in mind that traffic in downtown Austin can be quite busy on Friday afternoons and allow extra travel time.

All Conference events will conclude on Sunday, June 28, around 1 PM. .

Can I bring my book/flyers/etc. to sell or give away?
If you are interesting in selling books or promoting books or services at the Conference, you will need to purchase a table in the exhibition hall. For details, contact Cyndi Hughes.

What is there to do at night in Austin?
Austin has many, many night-time attractions. Check out activities and travel information.

Can my spouse/child/friend stay in the hotel with me?
Yes. You may bring whomever you want to accompany you on your trip, and they can absolutely stay at the hotel with you, but cannot attend Conference events.

Can my spouse/child/friend, etc. come to the workshops?
No. All conference events require paid registration.

Can my spouse/child/friend, etc. come to the receptions?
No. All Conference events require paid registration.

I am not attending the Conference. Can I still come to the receptions/exhibition hall?
No. All Conference events require paid registration.

I've read the FAQ, but I still have questions! Who can answer them for me?
You can contact the Writers' League with any questions you have about the 2009 Conference or other League programs by calling 512.499.8914 or by emailing Kristy.

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